Overview

• Chinese state TV microphones recorded Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin informally discussing biotechnology, organ transplants, and even “immortality” as they approached the Tiananmen viewing platform.
• Putin later confirmed the conversation to reporters and said modern medical methods, including surgical organ replacement, could lengthen active life expectancy.
• Xi was heard suggesting humans might reach 150 years this century, while a translator relayed Putin’s view that continual transplants could rejuvenate people.
• Coverage noted Rosatom said last year it was developing technology to “print” human organs, while reporters emphasized there is no evidence that organ‑by‑organ replacement overcomes aging, particularly of the brain.
• The exchange unfolded during a rare joint appearance with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un, and it comes as both 72‑year‑old leaders have taken steps that allow them to remain in power for years.